IOPDHR-GENEVA-NGO’s Participation in the Second Celebration of the International Day of Care and Support

Theme: "Transforming Care Systems: Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in the Context of Beijing+30"
Date: November 28, 2024
Location: United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Palais des Nations, Geneva

The International Observatory for Peace, Democracy, and Human Rights in Geneva (IOPDHR-GENEVA-NGO)had the honor of participating in the second celebration of the International Day of Care and Support, organized by UN Women, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). The event was co-sponsored by Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico, the Philippines, and Spain.

Context and Objectives of the Event

This event, held under the theme “Transforming Care Systems: Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in the Context of Beijing+30,” marked thirty years since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration, a crucial framework for advancing women’s rights. It highlighted the critical role of care systems in building equitable and resilient societies.

Discussions underscored that care work, often invisible and unpaid, is a cornerstone of families, communities, and economies. Recognizing, valuing, and investing in care systems is essential not only for promoting gender equality but also for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Messages Addressed

During the discussions, several key priorities emerged:

1️⃣ Recognition of Care Work: Elevating the role of caregivers, often marginalized in public policies.
2️⃣ Investment in Care Systems: Developing infrastructure and policies that promote accessible, equitable, and sustainable care systems.
3️⃣ Impact on Gender Equality: Positioning care work as a key lever for reducing structural gender inequalities.
4️⃣ Link to the SDGs: Placing care systems at the center of global strategies to achieve the SDGs, particularly in post-COVID recovery and in response to global social and economic challenges.

IOPDHR-GENEVA-NGO’s Commitment

As a human rights organization, IOPDHR-GENEVA-NGO reaffirms its support for initiatives aimed at transforming care systems. The Observatory emphasizes the importance of a global framework that values and supports caregivers, recognizing their fundamental role in achieving more inclusive and equitable societies.

IOPDHR will continue to actively participate in international forums to advocate for greater recognition of care systems and their integration into public policies as a pillar of sustainable development and social justice.